November 2024- Trish Bennett has officially stepped into her new role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Mersey Care as of November 1, 2024. Previously serving as CEO Designate, Bennett takes over from Professor Joe Rafferty CBE, who retired after a 12-year tenure.

Bennett was appointed CEO following a national recruitment process, having formerly held roles as the Trust’s Deputy CEO, Chief Nurse, and Chief Operating Officer. “I look forward to working with the talented staff at Mersey Care and our system partners to continue to improve health and ensure high-quality care for all of our communities across the Cheshire and Merseyside region,” said Trish Bennett.

Beginning her career in the NHS as a nurse, Bennett has gained substantial leadership experience within the Northwest, both in provider settings and at NHS England. Since joining Mersey Care in 2016, she has contributed to multiple roles, most recently leading nursing and operations across nearly 200 sites, encompassing mental health, learning disabilities, community, secure, and prison services. Bennett has also overseen the Trust’s compliance with Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards and Emergency Preparedness Resilience and Response (EPRR) protocols.